Nervous Bits

Axon: a long thick projection in nerve cells that sends electrical signals out away from the cell body. more...

Cell: a tiny building block that contains all the information necessary for the survival of any plant or animal. It is also the smallest unit of life. ... more

Central nervous system (CNS): a part of the nervous system which includes the brain and spinal cord.

Dendrites: long thin projections in nerve cells which receive electrical signals. ... more

Neuron: a special cell which is part of the nervous system. Neurons work together with other cells to pass chemical and electrical signals throughout the body...more

Nutrient: a vitamin, mineral, or chemical in food that the body uses to grow, repair, or do work... more

Peripheral nervous system (PNS): a part of the nervous system which includes all the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord.

Flashcard facts and information about the nervous system

Biology Bits stories are a great way for you to learn about biology a little bit at a time. We’ve broken down information into pieces that are very tiny—bite-sized biology cards. Cutting out the cards will let you organize them however you want, or use them as flashcards while you read.

This set of bits will teach you about the system that senses the world around you and controls your body: your nervous system. To learn more about the science behind your nerves, visit A Nervous Journey.

Play the slide show from the beginning or pick a slide to begin with by clicking on a slide below.

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Be part of Ask A Biologist

by volunteering, or simply sending us feedback on the site. Scientists, teachers, writers, illustrators, and translators are all important to the program. If you are interested in helping with the website we have a Volunteer page to get the process started.